HUNTINGsmart! USA Knowledge Base

You waited all year for duck season. You packed (and re-packed) your bag the night before and you woke up in the dark so you can get to your blind before sun-up. On rushed mornings like these, don’t forget about transportation safety. Chances are, you’ll be driving a vehicle to get where you’re hunting and guess what? There are laws for that.

It doesn’t matter if you’re driving a truck, ATV, boat, snowmobile or if you’re riding a horse. If you’ve got firearms and ammunition on board, you need to take extra care and pay attention. Avoid getting a fine by always checking with the state you’re hunting in for the specific firearm transportation requirements. We recommend using a hard case for transportation and then transfer your firearm to a soft carrying case once you arrive at the hunting location.

Prevent an accident from occurring on the road by following these safety rules:

• Make sure the firearm is unloaded.
• Always point the firearm in a safe direction.
• Make sure the safety is engaged.
• Store the ammunition in a separate container or case.
• Remove the magazine (if applicable).
• Store the firearm in a hard case.
• Place the firearm in a secure position where it can’t be dislodged, stepped on, sat on, or seen by onlookers.

Remember, although it seems unlikely, hunting isn’t for everyone. Some people just aren’t comfortable around firearms and some are just resolute non-hunters. Avoid making these folks uncomfortable by keeping your firearms covered up when they’re in your vehicle.

Wise Words: Cover Up

If you’re parked in a public area, a firearm on the back seat of a truck is an invitation for a thief. You’ll have a broken window before you know it. So get it in a case, keep it out of sight and throw a blanket or jacket over it if you’re stopping somewhere.